FRANCE: Beaujolais
2015: Gold 0 Silver 1 Bronze 3 Commended 6
2014: Gold 0 Silver 4 Bronze 1 Commended 3
Following the dizzy heights of a few years ago, when it was spurred on by the excellent 2009 and 2010 vintages, Beaujolais’ miserable run of weather since then has been reflected in tumbling medals. Sommeliers like it and can see a use for it, particularly with red Burgundy prices where they are, but the weather gods need to deliver.
From the Tasting Teams
‘Because of the preconception that it is easy, fruity and quaffable, it makes it difficult to sell pricier Beaujolais. But the higher end are wines for wood pigeon, quail, game birds – foods which people think are Pinot-ish, but where quality Beaujolais can do very well.’ Mya Brown, Vinoteca Marylebone
‘Good Beaujolais is an easy sell on a sunny day, so you are looking for juicy fruit, good Gamay freshness, and you should think about chilling it when it’s warm and making a feature of the wines.’ Laszlo Vagasi, Kensington Wine Rooms